Still sweet 16

As actor Dev Anand completes 65 years in the industry, he still feels young. The veteran actor gets candid about his upcoming movie and his struggle in Bollywood.

He’s 87, and as young as ever. Veteran actor Dev Anand is as energetic and enthusiastic as a 16-year-old. “It’s my passion for work that makes me feel 16 at 87. If one cannot feel this way, then one should retire. But, I want to work all my life as it gives me a beautiful high,” says Anand, who was in the Capital to promote his latest films — Chargesheet and remastered version of Hum Dono (1961). Though he enjoys his stardom, purely because it is hard earned, he is quick to call himself a common man. "I am a star, but more of a common man. I really don’t know why am I supposed to sit on that dais and not everyone else at an event." Anand started his Bollywood journey in 1945, 65 years ago. He has worked in more than 100 films, produced 30 movies and directed almost 20 films.

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Dev Anand

And, he says, there’s a long way to go. Asked how he feels about the current trends of Bollywood movies, he says, "I don’t have to be that important to comment on someone’s work. Making movies is a passion, if you have it, you practice it." He adds, "I think nothing much changes with time as the emotions remains the same and appeal universally, regardless of the era or language in which the film has been made."

For Anand, his success is even more special, because he’s self made. “I came to Mumbai when I was a 19-year-old. I had nothing with me, neither a Godfather nor any recommendation letter. All I had was a strong conviction and a big smile. Those who get success on a plate, don’t appreciate what they have. Struggle teaches you a lot in life,” he says.